Expert: Gary Backlund, DMD, MSD - 12/21/2009

Question
QUESTION: Dear Dr. Backlund,

   Forgive me for speaking in general terms since I kind of have to around here, but if there was a stain on a tooth that has been root canalled, but that stain can be scraped off with a dental tool, but yet it's sore around that area where the stain is on, would scraping off that so called stain or "stuff" help resolve the issue or make the pain go away? Is there anything like that? Thank you.

ANSWER: HI Leona,

Any stain that is on the outside of the tooth, especially if it can easily be removed, would not be related to any pain following a root canal...it just can't happen.

You obviously have an issue here, so if you could give me more info maybe I can help.

Gary Backlund DMD, MSD

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Well, I've had a root canal earlier this year. After the root canal it didn't hurt. Then a month later, it started hurting. I noticed myself that when I'm half asleep, when I'm half aware, I notice I clench on my front tooth, where the root canal was performed. I also believe it's from stress. So, do you know of any ways or any methods to stop clenching? Another dentist told me that it may be the infection on the bone, but then after the root canal was performed I couldn't feel anything. Then a month later, it started hurting. Why do you think that is? And also, who is the best type of dentist to go for clenching issues? How about root fractures or tooth fractures? Thank you!  

Answer
Hi Leona,

Clenching is a habit that is very difficult to break. It has a basis in psychological issues and during times of high stress, it is usually worse. We see a lot in school teachers at the end of the school year and from everyone during the holidays. It may be necessary for you to see someone to manufacture a night guard which acts like a flat plane so you can't find any areas to grind on...it works quite well in most cases.In severe cases, there are dentists who specialize in treating people who grind. They are TMJ specialists, but they are usually only in larger cities. You could ask your dentist if one is in your area.

Root fractures and tooth fractures are always a possibility for those since grinding places a lot of stress on teeth. It is certainly something you want to get a handle on before you do yourself more severe damage.

Hope this helps.

Gary Backlund DMD, MSD